Lady Gaga Defends Wearing Fur

After being criticized by the animal rights group PETA, Lady Gaga has now issued a lengthy statement about her choice to wear what's believed to be a real fur coat in public. The singer posted a statement on her social networking site LittleMonsters.com in response to backlash from her otherwise faithful fans.

"I want you to know that I care deeply about your feelings and views, and I will always support your philosophies about life," Gaga wrote. "I do not however support violent, abusive, and childish campaigns for ANY CAUSE. Particularly one I respect: Animal Rights." There, she appeared to be addressing militant animal rights activists.

"I am choosing not to comment on whether the furs I purchase are faux fur-pile or real because I would think it hypocritical not to acknowledge a python, ostrich, cow hide, leather, lamb, alligator, 'kermit' and not to mention meat, that I have already worn," Gaga added. She was referring, of course, to her infamous "meat dress," and to a cape she once wore that was made entirely of stuffed Kermit the Frog dolls.

"I am not a strict vegan. I have truly always stayed away from skinned fur, especially I have never been able to afford a nice one, but this does not mean my morals are rigid and that I won't bend at the sight of an absolute art piece of a coat…You see a carcass, I see a museum pièce de résistance," Gaga added.

"But I am truly sorry to fans who are upset by this, its a fair and applaudable feeling about the health and safety of animals. I respect your views, please respect mine."

Referring to PETA activists who flour-bombed Kim Kardashian earlier this year, she concluded, "And to campaigners, save your flour to make bread for the children who are hungry. And Kim Kardashian is fabulous."